Sierra Leone Police Demotes 4 Officers for Negligence in Rape Case

February 14, 2024

On 24th January 2024, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) Complaint, Discipline, and Internal Investigations Department (CDIID), led by ACP Abubakarr Kallon, took the unprecedented step of issuing demotions to four officers for their negligence in handling a rape case in Kenema City.

The officers demoted were the Local Unit Commander of Kailahun, ACP Mohamed Morie Kamara (OC Blama), ASP Josiah Nicol, and Inspector Ansumana. The demotions came after their failure to address the rape case, which led to severe consequences for the Publisher of a newspaper who had reported the crime. The Publisher faced assault, his home and property were vandalized, and threats to his life and his family’s safety emerged from the perpetrator and sympathizers. Seeking police protection in Freetown, the Publisher filed a complaint with the CDIID.

Following thorough investigations in Freetown, the CDIID established a case against the officers. A Disciplinary Committee was convened to hear the matter. Initially pleading not guilty, the officers’ stance changed as witnesses testified and were cross-examined. The CDIID found the officers guilty on all three counts, issuing warning letters and ordering demotions as part of the disciplinary measures.

ACP Morie Kamara was demoted to Superintendent, ASP Josiah Nicol to Inspector, and Inspector Ansumana to Sub-Inspector. This decision has been met with commendation from Sierra Leoneans, who appreciate the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, for granting the CDIID the authority to take decisive actions in promoting discipline and enhancing public confidence in the ‘Force for Good.’